If you use assistive technology (eg a screen reader) and need a
version of this document in a more accessible format, please email enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk.
Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

If you use assistive technology (eg a screen reader) and need a
version of this document in a more accessible format, please email enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk.
Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Detail

Wild birds must be fitted with the correct close ring before you can sell them. If not you must apply for a licence.

Licences are free. Allow up to 30 working days for a licensing decision to be made.

What your application needs to show

For each bird you want to sell you’ll need to state its:

species

identification mark and marker number

year of hatching

age and sex

parents’ details, if bred in captivity

You should include details of a licence for captive birds and breeder details.

You’ll need to show:

your qualifications

why you are applying and the aims of killing the wild birds

conservation considerations

authorisation from the landowner or occupier

How to report your actions

You are required to report any actions you took under this licence to Natural England using the report form template available on this page. You need to complete the report no later than 2 weeks after your licence expires, even if you’ve taken no action.